Christian Living

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We should learn from Joshua Gidado's attitude

A few days ago, I caught myself grumbling about something so petty. Almost instantly, a wave of shame washed over me as I remembered an inspiring gentleman named Joshua Gidado. The first time I heard about him and saw his pictures, I was blown away. After calling Jos, Nigeria, and speaking with him on the phone, I was left in awe of God’s goodness—and embarrassed by my own ingratitude. Here was a man in an unimaginable condition, yet he was praising God for His faithfulness. I was both challenged and inspired.

For over forty years, Gidado never experienced the simple joy of walking on his own two feet or holding something in his hands. Yet, he was deeply loved by all who knew him for three key reasons: his unwavering faith in God, his love for reading, and his role as a proud coach of a neighborhood soccer team that competed in state matches. Despite his limitations, he taught himself to read—even though he couldn’t hold a book.

A Life Defined by Faith and Strength

Gidado was born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, commonly known as brittle bone disease. His condition was severe from birth, causing his bones to break repeatedly. Despite his family's best efforts and medical care, his condition worsened, leading to further degeneration of his bone structure. His limbs shrank and broke to the point of near uselessness, leaving him unable to walk or even sit.

However, instead of succumbing to despair, Gidado found a way to rise above his pain. A handcrafted wooden wagon, measuring about four feet became his mode of mobility. With the support of family and friends who pushed him wherever he needed to go, he embraced life with courage. From his custom-made stand on the wagon, he coached a soccer team, attended church, read books, and, most importantly, maintained a heart of gratitude.

His mother and brothers worked tirelessly to keep him healthy. Despite suffering from illnesses like malaria and pneumonia, Gidado remained in good spirits. His community also rallied around him. Students from Hillcrest School in Jos even helped build an extra room in his family's small home to provide him with more space.

A Giant in Spirit

Tripp Johnson, author of Half a Body, Giant of a Man, wrote about his life-changing encounter with Gidado during a mission trip to Nigeria. At a gathering of 200 Christian leaders for a sports program, Johnson noticed Gidado arriving in his wagon. The sight of him limbless, deformed, yet radiating joy was heart-wrenching. But what truly moved him was witnessing the love and devotion of the young boys who pulled Gidado’s wagon. They cared for him as if he were their own family, wiping the sweat from his brow and holding the Bible for him so he could read.

Intrigued, Johnson interviewed Gidado and learned about Joshua’s Soccer Academy, a program Gidado founded for boys aged 8 to 15. Though physically unable to play, Gidado hired an able-bodied coach and older neighborhood boys to train the younger ones. After each practice, he would gather the boys and teach them about God’s love and purpose for their lives.

Johnson was astounded. Here was a man who could not run, yet he led a soccer team. He could not lift a book, yet he was an avid reader. He could not walk, yet he led others toward God. Instead of blaming God for his condition, Gidado used his uniqueness to impact others, proving that physical limitations could never hinder a determined spirit.

A Legacy That Lives On

During one of Johnson’s visits, he watched as the boys presented Gidado with a new soccer ball. Even the youngest children, too small to join the team, crowded around him, holding his hands and showing their love. It was clear that his influence extended far beyond the soccer field.

Meeting Gidado changed Johnson’s life. Before traveling to Nigeria, Johnson was hesitant to leave his family behind for missionary work. But after seeing how Gidado overcame immense personal trials to serve others, he realized that true faith conquers all fears.

Johnson watched as Gidado, sitting immobile in his wagon, spoke powerfully about God’s love, unity, and purpose. At that moment, it became clear that his physical limitations were merely external. His spirit was unbreakable.

A Life Well Lived

I recently called to follow up on Gidado, only to learn that he had passed away after a brief illness. I was devastated, but I am grateful to have known such a remarkable man. His life was a testament to unwavering faith—an example we should all strive to follow.

Joshua Gidado may have had half a body, but he was undoubtedly a giant of a man. May his precious soul continue to rest in perfect peace.

Until next time, keep counting and naming your blessings one by one.


May Oyairo is the Founder and Publisher of MannaXPRESS since 2006. She is dedicated to empowering, informing, and inspiring people of all races. Visit www.mannaxpress.com for more self-improvement and inspirational articles.

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